December Happenings Around the District

December was a busy and exciting month across the district, filled with festive celebrations, inspiring learning experiences, and outstanding student achievements. Here are just a few highlights from around Northside:

Fields Elementary: A Winter Wonderland Tradition

Each year, Fields Elementary is reminded of the incredible power of creativity, dedication, and heart. For the past decade, Coaches Lynda Hamilton and Daniel Resendiz have transformed the school gymnasium into a breathtaking Winter Wonderland—complete with lights, inflatables, themed backdrops, and ten hands-on activity stations that get every student moving and smiling.

What began as a small idea has grown into a beloved tradition eagerly anticipated by the entire community. This year’s Polar Express theme captured the imagination of students and staff alike. Even more inspiring, Coaches Hamilton and Resendiz extended their impact beyond campus by hosting a professional development session, Light Up Learning, welcoming 30 educators from across the district to share ideas and spark creativity.

The Fields ES Winter Wonderland is more than a festive space—it’s a powerful reminder that schools can be places of wonder, connection, and lifelong inspiration. Thank you, Coaches Hamilton and Resendiz, for continuing to make learning magical.

Winter Dance Spectaculars

Hundreds of talented middle and high school dancers took the stage this month during Northside’s Winter Dance Spectaculars, delivering unforgettable performances filled with artistry and energy. A special thank-you to NISD Student Ambassador Tina Quach for beautifully capturing the high school showcase.

Sotomayor HS and Jefferson MS: Celebrating Inclusion

Sotomayor High School ALE and Jefferson Middle School ALE partnered for the first-ever collaborative sensory event in honor of Inclusive Schools Week. Hosted by Sotomayor HS, the event highlighted a shared commitment to belonging, accessibility, and student-centered learning.

Students from Sotomayor’s AVID and Teaching and Training classes played key roles in planning and supporting the event, which featured sensory stations and inclusive activities designed to engage learners with diverse needs. Staff and students from multiple learning areas collaborated to ensure a welcoming, safe, and celebratory experience for all.

North American Champs

Two fourth graders at Burke Elementary are now world title holders. Siblings Kaylee and Noah Pena competed at the North American Grappling Association World Championships in Dallas, earning gold medals in both of their divisions and bringing home four world titles.

Beyond their athletic success, both students are honor students who participate in choir. Kaylee is also enrolled in GT classes and competes in chess—proof that excellence extends far beyond the mat.

Spanish Spelling Bee Champions

From elementary spellers to seasoned high school competitors, students impressed audiences during the annual NISD Spanish Spelling Bee with their poise, focus, and mastery of challenging vocabulary. Cheers and proud smiles filled the room as families and educators watched students showcase months of hard work.

Congratulations to the winners who will represent NISD at the ESC-20 Spanish Spelling Bee on Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026:

• Elementary: Vanessa Acosta, 5th grade, Glenn ES — vahído
• Middle: Mateo Rawls, 6th grade, Briscoe MS — unguiculado
• High School: Mario Martinez, senior, Communications Arts HS — concupiscencia

We are proud of all participants—¡felicidades a todos!

CCA Shows Its “Can-Do” Spirit

CCA wrapped up its annual two-week CAN DRIVE with an incredible show of generosity. Students and families donated 570 canned goods along with multiple packs of dried foods, all of which were delivered to the NISD Family Engagement Center.

Each year, the campus unites around a shared mission: helping ensure families in need have food on their tables during the holidays. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making a meaningful difference this season.

CPS Energy Presents Rebate Check

Representatives from CPS Energy attended the Dec. 9 Board meeting to present NISD with a rebate check totaling $688,992, recognizing the district’s participation in the Demand Response Program and additional energy rebates collected.